Not my norm...

I think everyone who has read my blog for any length of time knows that I strongly encourage people to step out of their comfort zone - try something new. I personally like to try something at least daily (even little things count) - but when crafting, I think you should take this plunge every few months.

I admit - I'm inspired and awe-struck by much of the work that the ladies and gent of my knitting group produce. I have some some SERIOUSLY amazing pieces created from tiny little baby clothes to fantastic afghans - the lace work is no exception.



After yarn group this last week, I took a quick trip to Joann's with one of the women from my group. She went straight back to yarn with me (as if there was ever a doubt that would happen) and began rummaging through her favorites. So many of her choices were nothing like my personal preferences - she went for bold colors - even crazier: she went for bold colors that were self-striping - like... bright red that turns to bright yellow and back to a neon green. And even crazier - I know that when she sits down to knit it up, its going to be stunning.

And then I'm left in the "oh, that's pretty - I never would have thunk it - but wow, I'd love something like that" seat.

So while she was pawing through some seriously crazy colors, I saw Patons Lace sitting there... I have admired this yarn before and its not that I'm ever worried about working with such thin yarn - I can do it, I just tend to migrate away from it.

But all the lovely shawls my friends make... they were shoving inspiring me to buy this yarn.

I stood and started at it when I saw something even a little more insane for me - there was Patons Lace Sequin yarn! Yup, the same yarn only with a tiny sequin dotted throughout.

So - I thought Its time to try something new - and this time, its yarn choice. Granted, I didn't go wild in the color department - but I think the sequin are wild enough right now.

Baby steps, right?

I grabbed 2 balls of it and have been looking for a pattern ever since. I want to show off the halo of the yarn and the tiny sequins so it must be delicate. I also want it to be something nice I can wear to work but not so over-the-top fancy that people begin to question my sanity of selecting work appropriate accessories.

I originally thought it should be knit but I did find one crochet pattern that I think would look stunning. I just need to revisit the few patterns I have found and figure out which is the most feasible for me with my current skill set. Obviously, if I go with the crochet pattern I'm fine - if I go with a knit pattern, I increase my risk of getting stuck - but I'm willing to take that chance.

I need to figure out a pattern quick since I'm getting close to finishing the wrap for my daughter.

Any suggestions?